The victim then gave the man another £400, leaving him and the child alone donwstairs for a brief period of time, before demanding further payment which she refused.

After the men left, she later discovered that items of sentimental value, including china, were missing from the house.

Officers have been carrying out enquiries since the incident was reported to police by a family member on Tuesday, 9 October and are appealing for the public’s help to identify those involved.

The first man is described as white, in his sixties, 5ft 10ins tall, of slim build and with grey hair. The second is described as white, in his forties, 5ft 10ins tall, of stocky build with dark hair.

The third man is described as being white, in his late teens, 5ft 8ins tall of average build with red hair. The child is described as white, around 11 years old, 4ft 9ins tall, of slim build with dark hair.

The four are believed to have been travelling in a silver Transit-style vehicle.

Constable Kyshiea Nowicki from Livingston Police Station said: “This was a frightening experience for the victim, who was made to feel intimidated in her own home.

“We are eager to speak to anyone else who may have been approached by these men, or who may recognise their descriptions.